Queen becomes focus of Commonwealth Day 'twittering'

10 MARCH 2009Already steeped in history, Commonwealth Day notched up a new entry in the record books this year. In addition to celebrating its 60th anniversary, the event also featured a historic element when the service, attended by the Queen, featured in the first ever Twitter messages posted live from Westminster Abbey.

From a pew at the multi-faith service, the abbey's online editor broadcast the action on a blow by blow basis using micro-blogging site Twitter. This allows users to send text-based posts of up to 140 characters to those who've signed up to receive them.

Elegant in a powder blue hat and champagne-hued coat the monarch, who is head of the Commonwealth, was accompanied to the service by Prince Philip, who seems recovered following a back injury earlier this year.

Gordon Brown and his wife Sarah were also at the London landmark for service, which was held ahead of a celebratory evening reception at Marlborough House.